But what I find regrettable is to see the measures being taken against any possible damage this morning on the Champs Elysees, but I support this movement." The protests are the most sustained challenge to President Macron since his 2017 election.

His move to get rid of a wealth tax and raise a social welfare levy also fuelled anger - particularly in small villages and towns.

Macron's initial response to the protests was unyielding, But for some THAT made the former banker look out of touch with blue-collar workers.

(SOUNDBITE) (French) PROTESTER AND TRUCK DRIVER, JEAN-MARIE CAMUS, SAYING: "There's a total disconnect between him and us.

What he says counts for nothing.

He wants to stick to his policies, raising and raising taxes.

Well then fine!

On Saturday, we'll be going again to Paris.

Essentially it's a declaration of war, war with the French people." The next round of fuel tax hikes are due in January.

Macron argues they're needed to fight climate change - but he's given himself some room to back down later, Calling for a quarterly review of pump prices to ensure the tax is 'fair'.

He's offered talks with representatives of the protestors The President has his work cut out to calm this down.